Rajasthan – “Land of Kings” or “Land of Kingdoms”. The state was formed on 30 March 1949 when Rajputana – the name adopted by the British Raj for its dependencies in the region http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan – cite_note-GuptaBakshi2008-3 – was merged into the Dominion of India. Its capital and largest city is Jaipur,
The first mention of the name “Rajasthan” appears in James Tod‘s 1829 publication Annals and Antiquities of Rajast’han while the earliest known record of “Rajputana” as a name for the region is in George Thomas‘s 1800 memoir Military Memories.
Traditionally the Meenas, Gurjars, Bhils, Rajputs, Rajpurohit, Charans, Jats, Yadavs, Bishnois and other tribes made a great contribution in building the state of Rajasthan.
Modern Rajasthan includes most of Rajputana, which comprises the erstwhile 19 princely states.
Rajasthan – Rajputana of old. Land of a people who are brave and chivalrous, people with a warlike lifestyle around whom grew the most amazing legends of romance and heroism. There is a certain magic about Rajasthan which is unequalled by any other place in the world. It is a land of superlatives… everything here is breathtakingly beautiful, impressive and fascinating. It is packed with history, art and culture that goes back several centuries.
Rajasthan – the very name conjures up contrasting images of glistening golden desert dunes, parched landscapes, arid climate and then again, rich culture and cuisine, vibrant arts and crafts, eventful historic episodes, chivalrous and highly cultured people. Probably the constant war with the inimical natural elements has imparted a passion to the natives who live every day of their life to the fullest.
Devoutly religious and friendly, the Rajasthanis have honed their arts and crafts. The natives are known for their spirited dances and musical renderings, their extremely colorful attire and the royal culture. From the vivacious Ghoomar to the lilting Kunjar songs, the highly skilled Bhawai to the rustic Gorbandh, the melodies and dances of the state are simple spectacular art forms.
The arts and handicrafts of the region sell like hot cakes all over the country and internationally. Ghesso products, intricately cut marble jharokas, the ivory and lac jewellery, the carved sandalwood idols and the multi hued textiles are always in demand due to their simple charms and low pricing.
Colorful celebrations and cheer spice up the otherwise arduous and taxing life of the native Rajasthanis. A number of fairs are celebrated to celebrate the festive days and these are held especially around the important shrines and temples of the state.
Music and dance and religious euphoria mark these carnivals. Besides these, a number of animal bazaars such as camel fairs and cattle fairs make exchange of animals and other small trade possible. Here is a comprehensive guide to Rajasthan’s people, culture and festivals.